Luke Croll says a few kind words from Clinton Morrison convinced him to join Exeter City

1 September 2016

Simon Larkins

Former City striker speaks glowing about the Grecians style of play to Palace youngster

Luke Croll says it was Exeter City’s style of play and a few nice words about the club from former Grecian Clinton Morrison that convinced him to come to St James Park.

Luke is on loan from Palace until January 14 and that is a club where Clinton Morrison still holds legendary status having scored more than 100 goals for the Eagles.

However, Clinton is also a fans’ favourite at the Park, having spent a season and a half at Exeter before retiring from football in the summer, and Luke says he spoke to the popular striker about the Grecians well before he agreed to join them on Wednesday.

“I know quite a bit about Exeter,” said Luke. “I know about Tis, which was a big part of me wanting to come here and I know how the team play, which I feel suits me.

“I made my debut against Exeter when I was (on loan) at Plymouth, but even before that, I spoke to Clinton Morrison a few times when he was here playing. He said that they play really good football, so I knew from then and ever since I kept an eye out.”

Luke admitted he jumped at the chance to come to City and is really looking forward to getting some games under his belt, having only made three appearances while on loan at Plymouth last season.

“That was a key reason in me coming here,” he said. “Obviously last season, my loan spell got cut short for whatever reason and I wanted to start again this season, play games and I want to be a part of something special.

“I am looking forward to getting started. Obviously, we have a game on Saturday against Colchester and I can’t wait to get out there and play – if selected.”

Luke is a left-sided centre-half, who can also play at left-back, and admits he is comfortable playing in either of the roles if chosen to start against Colchester.

“I will play wherever the manager wants me to play and I’ll do it to my best of my ability,” he said. “I want to improve and learn and I want to get the experience that I need. I don’t want to make mistakes, but I will have to make mistakes to improve my own game and I want to be part of a team and know what it feels like to win games.”